Introduction

The Christian life is not a cakewalk. Definitely not when you are in charge of something. Spiritual, emotional, and even physical storms and shipwrecks are inevitable in Christian leadership. Consider the life, ministry, and death of the great leader Paul. He was sought after to kill, shipwrecked, and finally got executed! In today’s sermon, I am going to share some of the leadership qualities that Paul expressed when he got shipwrecked. So as leaders we shall know how to handle our own storms and shipwrecks in ministry.

1. Expected the Unexpected

A. Paul expected what others never expected. Not even in their wildest dreams, (Acts 27:9-12)

B. He was a visionary leader. He wasn’t driven by what he saw but by the wisdom of God, (Acts 27:13)

C. Ask God for wisdom that you will see a crisis in advance and prepare yourself.

2. Remembered God’s Purpose

A. Paul was aware of God’s plan and purpose. He believed in God for His Word, (Acts 9:15-16)

B. He shrewdly appealed to Caesar and arranged to sail to Rome so that he could preach to Romans! (Acts 27:23-25)

C. When in crisis, remember God’s purpose. It helps to maintain focus on the mission.

3. Took control of the Situation

A. Paul didn’t blame others but had faith in God and sustained hope, (Acts 27:21-25)

B. He assumed leadership, took control, and devised a plan to deal with the situation at hand, (Acts 27:26)

C. Leaders are called to sustain hope, control situations, devise plans, and take action.

4. Maintained a composed Attitude

A. In the middle of the havoc, Paul gathers a pile of brushwood. A sign of composed attitude, (Acts 28:3)

B. It is Paul’s composed attitude that gave him the ability to lead his team. It was a gift from God.

C. Leaders with composed attitudes always win the trust of their followers. Every leader must pray to God for that gift.

5. Remembered his Identity

A. The Maltese were swift to judge. They believed Paul is a criminal and later a god, (Acts 28:3-6)

B. Paul wasn’t concerned. He knew he is not a sinner or a god. Rather used the opportunity to minister.

C. When criticized, leaders must remember their identity in God because seeking to silence the critiques distracts them from the task.

6. Didn’t stop Leading

A. The bad weather forced Paul to stay in Malta for 3 months. He didn’t have control of the weather.

B. He continued to lead instead of sitting idle and cursing the weather, (Acts 28:8-11)

C. Godly leaders transform crises into new opportunities for leading. They don’t give excuses.

Implications

Leaders who handle the crisis the right way receive grace from God. God’s presence will always be with them. Consider the following.

A. God assured Paul of divine Protection

(Acts 27:23-24)

If you follow Paul’s example in times of crisis God will always protect you and help you to reach your intended destination.

B. The supremacy and power of God Manifested

At times of terrible crisis, God wants leaders through whom he can manifest His power. Stand up to the challenge and God will use you mightily.

C. God gave Paul favor in the eyes of Strangers

(Acts 28:1-2)

The Maltese didn’t speak Paul’s language but they definitely understood Paul’s situation. God always sends help to leaders like Paul.

D. God made the Maltese honor Paul

(Acts 28:10)

Real leaders are more concerned about glorifying God than their own fame. God personally honors such leaders and makes them be honored by others.

Conclusion

If you are a leader help yourself with these principles every time you find yourself standing before storms and shipwrecks. One day you will be able to look back and say ‘Mission accomplished!’ (Conclude by reading 2 Timothy 4:7) If this sermon was helpful to you, please consider leaving your feedback in the comments section at the bottom. It would be a great encouragement to me personally.

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